What is the term for age-related hearing loss?

The term for age-related hearing loss is presbycusis. This condition is characterized by a gradual decline in hearing ability as one gets older, commonly affecting high-frequency sounds first and often leading to difficulties in understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. Various factors contribute to presbycusis, including genetic predisposition, cumulative exposure to noise, and changes in the inner ear structures over time. It is a common occurrence among the elderly population and can significantly impact communication and quality of life.

The other terms listed refer to different auditory issues. Ototoxins are substances that can cause damage to the auditory system, often linked to certain medications. Tinnitus refers to the perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears without an external sound source, and hyperacusis is characterized by an increased sensitivity to normal environmental sounds. These conditions do not specifically describe age-related hearing loss, which is why presbycusis is the most appropriate term.